Catch And Release: A New Kind Of Aquarium Interaction!

Featured Image Credit: www.tobermory.co.uk
By Sarah Sharkey

At the Mull Aquarium in Scotland, you can participate in the stocking of aquarium tanks. As part of a Catch and Release aquarium model that temporarily brings new sea creatures into special tanks for short periods of time.

The aquarium really relies on local people to bring their finds into the aquarium for all to see. It is a true community effort from families, divers, tourists and local fishermen to keep the tanks stocked with new creatures on a regular basis.

The aquarium’s educational officer, Grace Lambert, had this to say about the contributions, “We work very closely with the fisherman who provides our creatures and educates where necessary. The creatures they donate to us… are often part of their livelihood, so they take good care of them. If any other people offer to catch things for the aquarium, we tell them beforehand the best way to catch and look after the creatures.”

The animals only stay in the aquariums for a maximum of four weeks. Some of the less hardy animals, like an octopus, can only stay for a few days before they are put back where they came from. The tanks are filled with seawater directly from the bay, so most of the animals can adjust quickly to their new surroundings.

The new program is a great way to get the community more involved in caring for its sea creatures. Hopefully, it will catch on everywhere soon!

Learn more from our source.